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Owner description: The Chicago Architecture Foundation (CAF) is a nonprofit cultural organization with tours, exhibitions, programs and events for all ages. Visit CAF on Michigan Avenue to view our 1,000-building scale model of Chicago, shop in our award-winning store, or participate in a fun LEGO® building event in our ArcelorMittal Design Studio. Choose from 85 tours by boat, walking, bus, or even L train, including the CAF River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady Cruises. Tours depart daily and are led by CAF's expert docent guides. Every October, check out CAF's free annual Open House Chicago festival. Proceeds from CAF’s tours and gift shop, as well as grants, sponsorships and donations, support this educational mission.

The Architectural Boat Tour came recommended to me by people who had taken it a decade ago. Given the rich architectural tradition of Chicago, it is to my shame that I'd never considered an architectural tour. Missing this piece of Chicago should be a criminal offense. The docent for our tour, Susan B., proved to be incredibly knowledgeable both about the history and development of Chicago as well as architectural styles including challenges and artistic merit. Seeing buildings from the river is to see them from the city's heart, and Susan's explanation brought architecture, art, engineering and history to life. All of us, including those who had previously taken the tour, were inspired by the description and realized how rapidly the city continues to grow and change. I strongly urge pre-booking. This memorable tour is in heavy demand (justifiably), and missing it because one fails to plan would be crushing.

Ask BienAgiter about Chicago Architecture Foundation

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This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC

ChiArchitecture, Social Media Coordinator at Chicago Architecture Foundation, responded to this reviewResponded 2 January 2018

We are thrilled that you enjoyed the river cruise! Thank you for taking the time to review us and for your kind words. I will be sure to pass your compliments along to your docent, Susan.

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The River Tours run by the Architecture Foundation are the absolute best "compact" Chicago Tour. Whether you've lived in Chicago your entire life or are just visiting, this is a great way to learn some of the history and architectural importance of the "Second City" (which you'll learn has nothing to do with being "second" to New York!). I can't recommend the CAF's tours enough - their docents are always exceptionally knowledgeable.

Moreover, the store on Michigan Avenue is definitely worth stopping into during your visit to Millennium Park or your walk along the Magnificent Mile!

For any tour on a boat, regardless of season, dress in layers. Even on cool days it can be really warm in the sun, and it can get downright chilly on the river even on the warmest days.

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ChiArchitecture, Social Media Coordinator at Chicago Architecture Foundation, responded to this reviewResponded 2 January 2018

We are so glad that you enjoyed the river cruise! Thank you for taking the time to review us and for your kind words. It is much appreciated!

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Don't ignore a chance to see some of the most fabulous, beautiful, and stunning buildings as well as obscure areas along the river and harbor Shoreline in downtown Chicago! We were definitely delighted and amazed at the attractions I.e. Canoe rentals, Condos with an interesting marina access, sidewalk cafes, and numerous other views! The charge for this excursion included snacks and non- alcoholic beverages! We were very pleased with this service and the elaborate narration of many of the areas seen during our boat trip!

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ChiArchitecture, Social Media Coordinator at Chicago Architecture Foundation, responded to this reviewResponded 19 December 2017

We are so glad that you enjoyed the river cruise! Thank you for taking the time to review us.

Report response as inappropriateThank you. We appreciate your input.

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of TripAdvisor LLC